Public Education, Part 1

Richard Baird

eginning with the Boston Latin School in 1635, education's role in a transformation of America has a nebulous foundation. For the privileged few, almost always males in New England, intellectual growth was expected. In 1642, the Massachusetts Bay Colony felt compulsory education for males was a necessity.

Well into the 18th Century, Caucasian males essentially enjoyed the educational domain to themselves. However, as early as 1740 in Philadelphia, women began to "advance" their sensory skills in Arts and Sciences. By 1767, women were educated to read religious pamphlets, without being taught to write.

In the early 1800's Lydia Maria Francis Child, Lydia Sigourney, others, endeavored to educate children in various subjects. This movement following the Revolutionary War was labeled as the "Republican Motherhood" by writers in the 1980's.

Thomas Jefferson proposed education for the common good of the government, for the enlightenment of citizens contributing to America's development; expansion to the west and the expansion of one's mind.

Jefferson contended, "By teaching correct political principles to the young, they could nurture virtuous citizens; local controls gives adult citizens a chance to exercise self-rule." John Dewey over one hundred years later believed, "A commitment to education in democracy through an emphasis on political socialization and wise collective choices is a course to adhere to."

Dewey's philosophy, regardless of its vitality and viability, informally or formally; unfortunately, because of the political climate did not include women to its fullest extent, nor blacks, nor many dwelling in rural areas, particularly in the south.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at August 12, 2012 4:43 AM
Subscribe to this site via RSS/Atom: Newsletter signup | Send us your ideas